Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Personal Care
Barber Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for barber in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Barber in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Barbering
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,930 median (26% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 48,930, Barbers in Kentucky earn 26% above the national median of $38,960. Kentucky ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$48,930Hourly estimate
$23.5226% above national median
Difference: +$9,970
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationBarber Salary Ranking
#8 of 50 statesfor Barber median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Iowa | 78,480 |
| #2 | Washington | 70,750 |
| #3 | North Carolina | 64,290 |
| #4 | Colorado | 56,690 |
| #5 | Louisiana | 49,850 |
Nearby States Comparison
Barber licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $48,930 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $43,590 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $46,930 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $34,360 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $44,760 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $31,230 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $44,390 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $36,300 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Barbering
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 110, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297148
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $32,170 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Esthetician | $26,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Massage Therapist | $54,890 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Nail Technician | $60,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Barber in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Barbers in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Barbers.
What education do you need to become a Barber in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Barber licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Barber salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Barbers in Kentucky is 48,930. Salaries range from $26,460 (10th percentile) to $66,180 (90th percentile).
How does the Barber salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Barbers in Kentucky earn 26% above the national median of $38,960, with a state median of 48,930.
Can I transfer my Barber license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Barbers in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Barbering. Review agency details at http://barbering.ky.gov/.